Working together makes us better
/In the Animal Kingdom there is no 'speciesism', with one animal species believing they are better than every one else. In fact many species of animals work together to make their lives better, some can't even live with out each other! These species are examples of mutualism - where an animal of one species lives or works together with another species for mutual benefit.
A great example of mutualism is the zebra and the ostrich, which are often seen living together in zoos and on the plains of Africa. The zebra has a very strong sense of smell and hearing, while the ostrich has a great sense of sight. By working together they can see for miles, hear tiny sounds and smell predators coming. This means they can avoid predators so much better than if they were working alone.
A zebra and ostrich playing at the zoo
Another common example of species working together is birds such as the egret and large mammals like the buffalo. The birds preen parasites from the buffalo leaving him parasite free and the bird with a full belly!
Ants and Aphids are perhaps the most commonly used example of mutualism. The aphids eat the sap of trees and then produce a sweet and sticky waste product that ants love! In return the ants carry the aphids to new leaves as they eat and help protect them from certain predators.
An ant carrying a tiny aphid
Even humans enjoy mutualistic relationships with other species! The best example of this is humans and dogs, a bond which has now grown much stronger than simple mutual benefits. But the relationship started with dogs getting shelter and food in return for the protection they offered humans, as well as being great ways to dispose of waste!
These are but a few examples of animals of completely different species working together to help each other out. Humans can learn a lot from the way animals live together and get along. And by working together we can all benefit from others strength.
Joel and Molly enjoying the mutual benefits of their relationship!